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    Things to do in Great Ocean Road: Top beaches, adventure activities, wildlife, and more

    MelbourneMelbourne To Great Ocean Road ToursThings to do

    Looking for a beautiful drive that goes for more than 240 kilometers along the southern coast of Australia? The Great Ocean Road might be just the adventure you need. This route is known for its beautiful landscapes—from cliffs and green forests to lovely beaches and coastal towns. Adventure-lovers can enjoy surfing the famous waves at Bells Beach, kayaking through dramatic coastlines, or riding trails in nature. Spot native wildlife or go on to explore beautiful waterfalls, the Grotto, and the amazing Twelve Apostles. Whether you love adventure, enjoy nature, or just want to relax, pack your bags to make memories of a lifetime. Read on to discover activities, must-see destinations, and tips for a seamless journey. 

    8 ways to explore Great Ocean Road

    Surfers riding waves at Torquay Surf Beach, Victoria, Australia.
    Guided walk through Great Otway National Park along the scenic Great Ocean Road.
    Kayakers paddling near seals in Apollo Bay, Australia.
    Twelve Apostles rock formations along Great Ocean Road during reverse tour, Melbourne.
    Emu walking through Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve in Australia.
    Snorkeling near shipwreck at Wreck Beach, exploring underwater marine life.
    Cyclists riding along the scenic Great Ocean Road in Australia.
    Fishing at Lorne Pier, Victoria with anglers casting lines into the ocean.
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    Surfing at Bells Beach

    Known for its world-class waves, Bells Beach is a must-visit for surfers. If you’re a beginner, you can also take surfing lessons. The golden sands also make it a great spot for beachcombing.

    Rainforest walks

    Discover the lush beauty of Great Otway National Park, home of colourful wildlife. Inside the park, take the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, a beautiful trail through dense rainforest filled with trees, and vibrant birdlife. For another unique experience along the Great Ocean Road, visit the Californian Redwoods in Beech Forest. 

    Kayaking with wildlife

    Paddle through the calm waters of Apollo Bay and meet seals, and dolphins. This activity is suitable for families and adventure seekers alike to explore the coast.

    The Great Ocean Walk

    Stretching over 100 kilometers, this walk is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Trek through rugged cliffs and lush forests with coastline views. Some sections of the trail can be completed in a day, while others go on for longer—choose the one best suited to you.

    Wildlife spotting at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve

    Spot your favorite animals at this dormant volcano turned nature reserve. Take a guided tour to spot koalas, kangaroos, emus, and native birds.

    Snorkeling and shipwreck discoveries

    Dive into the waters at Port Fairy or Wreck Beach to see colorful fish, corals, and fascinating relics from Australia’s maritime past.

    Cycling along coastal trails

    Rent a bike and ride along scenic trails on the Great Ocean Road. Popular routes include the Bellarine Rail Trail and the Anglesea Mountain Bike Park for off-road adventures.

    Fishing at coastal towns

    The waters at Apollo Bay and Lorne are great for fishing trips and are known for their fresh seafood, including snapper and crayfish.

    Must-see attractions on the way

    Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour with view of 12 Apostles rock formations in Melbourne, Australia.

    Twelve Apostles

    These limestone stacks rise from the Southern Ocean and are best viewed at sunrise or sunset.

    Tourists at Loch Ard Gorge, Great Ocean Road Ecotour
    London Bridge rock formation along Great Ocean Road, Australia.
    Erskine Falls cascading into lush forest along Great Ocean Road, Australia.
    The Grotto rock formation along Great Ocean Road coastline, Australia
    Bay of Martyrs coastline view along Great Ocean Road, Australia, with rocky cliffs and ocean waves.
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    Adventure activities in Great Ocean Road

    Surfer riding a wave at Bells Bay, showcasing the popular surfing destination.

    Surfing at Bells Beach

    Bells Beach near Torquay, known for its quality waves, is one of Australia’s premier surf spots, attracting surfers from across the globe. New surfers can try safe surfing lessons at one of the many surf schools here.

    Great Ocean Walk trail with tourists hiking along coastal cliffs in Victoria, Australia.

    Hiking the Great Ocean Walk

    Stretching from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, the Great Ocean Walk spans nearly 100 kilometers through national parks, deserted beaches, and rugged coasts. You can choose to take the entire trail over several days or a shorter-duration drive with the family. 

    Cyclists navigating forest trails in Otway, Australia, during a mountain biking tour.

    Mountain biking in the Otways

    The Great Otway National Park has mountain biking trails for everyone. The Forrest Mountain Bike Park is a favorite among adventure lovers. Go for a bike ride to enjoy the beauty of the rainforest.

    Kayakers paddling near Cape Otway lighthouse, Australia, with scenic coastal views.

    Kayaking at Cape Otway

    Explore the coastline by kayak around Cape Otway to discover beaches, sea caves, and spot marine life up close. And along the way, discover the unique Cape Otway Lighthouse.

    Beaches of Great Ocean Road

    Coastal view of Apollo Bay with lush hills and ocean in Victoria, Australia.

    Apollo Bay

    Famous for its golden shores and perfect waves for surfing and swimming. The beach is part of the Great Otway National Park and is ideal for spotting dolphins and seals. Try exploring the coastline with a kayak, or simply enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.

    Lorne Beach along Great Ocean Road with waves and sandy shoreline.

    Lorne Beach

    Lorne is a popular spot for both swimming, surfing, and shopping. For adventure seekers, try fishing, kayaking, and hiking at the nearby Great Otway National Park.

    Torquay Beach along Great Ocean Road with surfers catching waves in the background.

    Torquay Beach

    Known as the birthplace of Australian surfing, Torquay is a must-visit for surfers. Besides surfing, you can also explore the coastal trails or head to the Surf world Museum.

    Gibson Steps beach view along Great Ocean Road with towering limestone cliffs.

    Gibson Steps

    The Gibson Steps, located near the Twelve Apostles, provide views of limestone cliffs and sandy beaches. For the adventurous, a steep descent down the steps to the beach offers an exciting challenge.

    Something for all: Activities for different age groups

    Woman observing koala in tree along Great Ocean Road, Australia.

    Family fun - Great Otway National Park Wildlife Tour

    This family-friendly tour offers a close encounter with Australia's native wildlife and is perfect for those traveling with kids. Families can take guided walks through lush rainforests and spot wildlife like kangaroos and koalas.

    Recommended experience:

    Lady looking out at Shipwreck Coast, Great Ocean Road Ecotour

    Solo travelers - Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour

    For solo travelers, the GOR reverse tour could be a good option as these tours are less crowded. They also come with expert guides and great photography opportunities, hitting spots like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

    Recommended experience:

    Surfer riding waves at Bells Beach, Australia.

    Adventure Seekers - Surfing at Bells Beach

    Bells Beach is known for its world-famous surf breaks and vibrant surfer culture. This beach is perfect for catching waves, hiking and there are also spots for cliff jumping around the area. It also hosts the Rip Curl Pro, a legacy surfing competition, usually scheduled around Easter (April). Attend the event to see professional surfers riding the waves. You can also choose a tandem skydive experience from 8,000-15,000 feet, along with a professional jumpmaster. 

    Recommended experience:

    Aerial view of the Great Ocean Road coastline during a helicopter tour in Australia.

    Couples retreat - Twelve Apostles Helicopter Ride

    For couples seeking a romantic adventure, a sunset tour to admire the beauty of the beaches is the perfect option. The tour passes through some of the most famous spots, making it perfect for capturing memories against the golden backdrop. 

    Recommended experience:

    Best time to visit for various activities

    Visitors ziplining through lush forest.

    Adventure activities

    • Best time: Spring (September–November) and Autumn (March–May) are ideal due to mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (December–February) is great for water-based activities but tends to be busier.
    • Tips: Book zip-lining or surfing lessons in advance, especially in peak seasons. Some activities may not operate in adverse weather.
    Woman running along the beach on the Great Ocean Road, Australia.

    Visiting Beaches

    • Best time: Summer (December–February) is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Early autumn (March) is also pleasant, with fewer crowds and warm waters.
    • Tips: Many beaches are patrolled during summer. Check for high-tide warnings and swim only in designated areas.
    Hikers on a trail overlooking the scenic coastline of the Great Ocean Road, Australia.

    Hiking

    • Best time: Autumn (March–May) and Spring (September–November) offer comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery, with blooming wildflowers in spring and golden foliage in autumn. Winter (June–August) can also be scenic but is colder and wetter.
    • Tips: Wear layers, as weather can change quickly. Some trails may close temporarily due to maintenance or weather, so check local updates.
    Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve sign in Victoria, Australia.

    Spotting wildlife

    • Best time: Koalas, kangaroos, and native birds can be seen year-round, but early mornings and late afternoons are best for activity.
    • Whale watching: Visit between June and October during the migration season for southern right whales.
    • Tips: Bring binoculars for better viewing, and follow signs to ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife. Guided tours provide the best chance of spotting elusive animals.
    Tourists at a viewpoint overlooking the Great Ocean Road during sunset.

    Additional information

    • Traffic: The Great Ocean Road can get congested, especially during weekends, holidays, and summer. Start early or stay overnight to avoid peak traffic times.
    • Local events:
    • In April, the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach takes place at Bells Beach, Victoria. Top surfers from around the world compete for the Bell trophy.
    • In May, the Great Ocean Road Running Festival is scheduled for May. You can participate in this event with various running distances along the scenic coastline.
    • Apollo Bay music festival is held in Apollo Bay, with different kinds of musical performances every year.

    Spot colourful wildlife at Great Ocean Road

    Koala resting in a tree along the Great Ocean Road, Australia.

    Koalas

     Koalas can be spotted around Kennett River and Cape Otway. They rest in eucalyptus trees, often seen napping during the day. The best time to see them is around spring and summer (September to February).

    Eastern Grey Kangaroo grazing on Anglesea Golf Course, Australia.
    Southern Right Whales breaching off the coast of Australia.
    Echidna walking through the forest floor in Great Otway National Park.
    Hooded Plover standing on sandy beach
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    Tips to prepare for the journey

    • If you’re planning to drive through popular towns like Torquay or Lorne, try to avoid rush hours (typically 8-9am and 4-6pm).
    • While the beaches along the Great Ocean Road are beautiful, the Southern Ocean can have powerful tides. Don’t swim in unpatrolled areas, especially near Loch Ard Gorge or Bells Beach, where rip currents are common.
    • The Great Ocean Road’s remoteness means some areas may have limited phone service. Have offline maps downloaded to help you navigate, especially in areas like Teddy’s Lookout or Warrnambool’s Botanic Gardens.
    • There are several secluded beaches along the route, such as Johanna Beach and Gibson Steps, that offer beautiful surroundings for a quiet picnic and family time.
    • The coastal weather can be unpredictable, with sunshine, rain, and wind all possible in a single day. Layer your clothing to stay comfortable and bring a waterproof jacket.
    • Gas stations can come after longer intervals along the road. Ensure your tank is full before starting your journey, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas like Cape Otway or Johanna Beach.

    Frequently asked questions about the Great Ocean Road

    What is the Great Ocean Road, and why is it famous?

    The Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometer stretch along Australia's southeastern coast, known for its stunning coastal landscapes, including the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, lush rainforests, and beaches.

    What are the must-see attractions along the Great Ocean Road?

    Key attractions include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and the Great Otway National Park, known for its rainforests and waterfalls.

    What wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?

    The region is home to koalas, kangaroos, colorful parrots, and diverse marine life along the coast.

    How long does a typical Great Ocean Road tour take?

    Most full-day tours from Melbourne last approximately 12 hours, covering major highlights along the route.

    What is the best time of year to visit the Great Ocean Road?

    The Great Ocean Road is accessible year-round, but the summer months (December to February) with warmer weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for sightseeing.

    Is the Great Ocean Road suitable for children and elderly travelers?

    Yes, many tours are designed to accommodate all age groups, with comfortable transportation and frequent stops for rest and sightseeing.

    Can I drive the Great Ocean Road myself?

    Absolutely! The Great Ocean Road is a popular self-drive destination, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. Make sure you’re comfortable with driving on winding coastal roads.

    What should I bring on a Great Ocean Road tour?

    It’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and a light jacket, as weather conditions can change.

    Are there restroom facilities along the route?

    Yes, there are restrooms available at major stops and towns along the Great Ocean Road.

    Is the Great Ocean Road wheelchair accessible?

    Some attractions and lookouts are wheelchair accessible, except adventure activities and areas with difficult terrains.

    Are there guided walks available in the Great Otway National Park?

    Yes, guided walks are available, offering insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history.

    How can I avoid crowds during my visit?

    Opting for early morning or late afternoon tours, or visiting during the off-peak season (May to September), can help you avoid larger crowds.